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Over 60 and wanting to move?

Have you considered moving into Sheltered Housing? 
Here’s a quick guide to what to expect from living in sheltered housing:

The benefits of sheltered housing

  • Freedom: the freedom to live independently.
  • Reassurance: you can have a home alarm system to use in case of emergency.
  • Support: help and advice available if needed.
  • Flexibility: there are different types and locations of sheltered accommodation
  • Financial help: if you are on a low income, Housing Benefit may cover some or all of the rent. For those eligible for pension credit, some support with meeting the cost of service charges may also be available.
  • Living with partner: option to remain with your husband/wife/civil partner, which might not be possible with other care options.
  • Making friends: opportunities to socialise with other residents of a similar age.
  • Enjoyment of communal areas: with no responsibility to maintain gardens or facilities.
  • No hassles with repairs or maintenance: there is a repairs service and access to a handy man service if needed
  • Safety and security: you will be living with other people of similar age

Facts about sheltered housing that you should be aware of:

  • Service charges: you will need to pay for some of the additional services offered in sheltered housing such as the alarm system in your home
  • No medical care provided: You will need to arrange for any health or support care.  If you need a lot of care, living in sheltered housing may not be the best option for you.
  • Limited choice: there may be a limited choice of schemes or accommodation types, in your preferred area,
  • Rules: You will have to live by the rules of the scheme and your tenancy agreement, which may, for example, restrict noise or forbid pets.
  • Reduced space: if you are are downsizing from a larger property, there may not be space for your possessions and furniture.
  • Bills: residents still have to pay the bills for their own properties (such as council tax, water, gas and electricity), which might make it more difficult to budget.
  • Access to staff: our staff visit the scheme on a weekly basis if you need to make an appointment to see them.  Staff do not live onsite. 

You can read more about sheltered housing including how to apply here.